Building the Future: Putnam Senior Awarded John H. Murphy Memorial Scholarship

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

July 13, 2026 – The John H. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded its annual scholarship to a Springfield student pursuing a future in the construction and engineering fields.

This year's recipient is Caryam Morales, a 2026 graduate of Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy. Caryam plans to study civil engineering in college and pursue a career helping design and build the infrastructure that shapes communities. The scholarship provides $1,500 annually for four years, totaling $6,000, along with industry connections through Springfield-based construction company City Enterprise, Inc.

Caryam's journey reflects resilience, determination, and a commitment to building a brighter future. After relocating to Springfield following Hurricane Maria, she embraced new opportunities and steadily worked toward her goals. During high school, Caryam successfully balanced four Advanced Placement courses with the demands of the school's carpentry program. She also earned her OSHA 10 certification and participated in cooperative education experiences that provided valuable hands-on exposure to the construction industry.

"Everything I've accomplished has been built one step at a time, brick by brick," said Caryam. "Moving to Springfield was a fresh start for my family, and since then I've worked hard to create opportunities for myself and prepare for a career where I can build things that make a difference."

As part of the scholarship program, Caryam will also benefit from mentorship from last year's scholarship recipient, Jonathan Hernandez, a 2025 graduate of Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy who is currently studying architecture at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Jonathan will serve as a peer mentor, offering guidance as Caryam navigates the transition from high school to college. The connection reflects the scholarship program's commitment to creating a network of future industry leaders who support and learn from one another.

The John H. Murphy Memorial Scholarship was established to support students pursuing careers in construction, engineering, architecture, and related fields while honoring the legacy of John H. Murphy, a respected leader in the construction industry.

"My husband believed deeply in hard work, education and continuous growth," said Lucille Murphy. "Caryam's determination, resilience, and commitment to building a better future represent the values this scholarship was created to recognize. Seeing her begin this next chapter with the support of Jonathan makes John's legacy even more meaningful, as one scholarship recipient helps inspire the next."

Those interested in supporting the John H. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Fund or learning more can visit www.jhmscholarship.com or contact the family at jhmscholarship@gmail.com.

Attached Photo: From left, 2026 John H. Murphy Memorial Scholarship recipient Caryam Morales, 2025 scholarship recipient and mentor Jonathan Hernandez, and JHMMS board member Lucille Murphy pose following the presentation of the annual scholarship award. The scholarship supports students pursuing careers in construction, engineering, architecture, and related fields while honoring the legacy of John H. Murphy.